The 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced remarkable stories both on and off the pitch.
Smaller nations have continued to capture global attention. Several underdogs have secured historic results to reach the knockout rounds for the first time.
One of those nations has enjoyed a memorable campaign after progressing from a difficult group.
However, events away from the football field have overshadowed preparations for the knockout stage.
Serious allegations have emerged, prompting a police investigation and a response from FIFA.
According to Globo Esporte, Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes is under police investigation over an alleged incident involving a team translator during the FIFA Series in New Zealand in March. FIFA has since issued an official statement about the case.
The report states that a Brazilian translator, who was working for the New Zealand Football Federation during Cape Verde’s friendly matches against New Zealand and Chile, alleged that the incident took place at the team’s hotel in Auckland on March 27.
Globo Esporte reports that the woman and her husband submitted evidence and formal notices to both the Cape Verde Football Federation and FIFA in May.
The outlet also states that New Zealand Police have confirmed the matter has been under investigation since April.
In a statement provided to O Globo (via Yahoo), FIFA said:
“FIFA takes any allegation of misconduct extremely seriously and has a clear process for anyone in football who wants to report an incident.
“As a general rule, it is important to understand that independent judicial bodies do not comment on allegations they may or may not have received, nor on whether or not there are ongoing investigations into the alleged cases.
“Any information they wish to share will be communicated at their discretion. FIFA is in contact with the New Zealand authorities. Please understand that we cannot comment further at this time.”
Cape Verde will face Argentina in the Round of 32. At the time of writing, the police investigation remains ongoing.
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